John Aloisi defends Kewell deal

MELBOURNE Heart coach John Aloisi has defended the signing of veteran Harry Kewell who is set to miss up to three more games after injuring his ankle at training this week.

Questioned whether Kewell could end up like another former Socceroo, Vince Grella, who signed with the Heart last season but played just one game before being forced into retirement through injury, Aloisi was adamant Kewell would be back.

"If there were muscle problems or groin injuries or something that comes with old age, then I will question what we have done, but Harry's been fine right through pre-season," the coach said.

"A rolled ankle you can never prevent, it can happen to an 18-year-old, it can happen to a 35-year-old.

"Once he's back on the pitch you'll see Harry performing because he's worked so hard for it."

Kewell told Melbourne's SEN radio station he was committed to playing for the Heart regardless of whether or not he figured in the World Cup plans of new Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou.

Kewell has been sidelined since suffering a head knock in round one this season.